When does the GACA issue airworthiness directives (AD)?

The GACA issues airworthiness directives (AD) specifically when an unsafe condition likely exists in similar products. This process is critical for ensuring the safety of aircraft and their operations. An AD serves as a formal notification to operators and maintenance personnel about specific unsafe conditions that need to be addressed, often due to findings from service experiences, accidents, or other safety-related assessments.

By identifying and addressing such potential safety issues, the GACA helps ensure that corrective actions are taken to mitigate risks across the fleet, thereby enhancing safety for passengers and crews. The issuance of an AD is driven by an obligation to prioritize safety and address concerns before they result in incidents or accidents, rather than being routine maintenance, scheduled inspections, or initiated by manufacturer requests.